From Wreck to Deck: Slim's Latest Cabin Challenge

My first fixup of the year is my long-awaited cabin deck. Although I'd never built one, I managed to hack it together as a solo project. Did I stay within budget? I reveal all costs and other surprises! This is Part 6 of the Fixer Upper series.
DISCLAIMER: This is NOT an instructional video on how to properly construct a deck, it is merely MY way. Always seek professional advice. For entertainment purposes only!
See all my Cabin videos here:
• Cabin Life
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/ @slimpotatohead
Website: www.slimpotatohead.com
Music Credits:
Out On My Skateboard - Mini Vandals
Thunder - Telecasted
No Doubt - Yung Logos
Don't Wanna Let Myself Down (Instrumental) - NEFFEX
Sunshine - Telecasted
Highway One - Steve Adams
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Sports Chair: amzn.to/3cPTS7U
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Portable Power Station: amzn.to/2LEZt4Z
How I get around:
Trailer: 2008 Outback by Trillium trilliumtraile...
Tow Vehicle: 2010 Jeep Liberty, 6 cyl 3.7L gas engine, 4WD, over 235,000 km
* Amazon Affiliate Links provide me with a very small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to the buyer. Please support Slim Potatohead by using my links for any Amazon purchase. Thanks!

[@tleej26]

The deck looks fantastic, the best part was seeing you sit down and enjoy a well deserved beer 🍺 🇳🇿

[@dewdropn5619]

I wondered if we'd get to see you enjoy time, in your directors chair... 🤗 I bet your body needed a hot tub on the deck, after all that labor! Ouch! Looks great SP! One of many milestones accomplished! Stay safe. 🕊

[@shirleyneufeld3098]

I have enjoyed your building and trips. My late husband was a builder and built three of our homes. My joy was to bring him coffees and food along watching or helping him build. I actually called it fun and the best part of our lives. Thanks for bringing back those memories...🇨🇦

[@raros5475]

Sweet memories

[@alcopower5710]

Sorry for your loss Shirley

[@shirleyneufeld3098]

Thank you...

[@SolarSailor1967]

Slim always downplays his skill levels but he's more handy than I am. (In Slims spirit, I'm watching this & commenting from a campsite.)

[@janebray9392]

My friend says, he's as handy as a pocket on a shirt!👍‼️

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

He knows some of the nomenclature (how's that for a word). I think he has had some experience with building. Heck, he's a guy, don't we all know a little something about making things?

[@Questicus]

Loving the cabin series Slim!

[@davidrobert4246]

I loved the American trip but these Cabin videos might be my favourite series of yours.

[@jenniferwise8515]

Canada is also North America. You mean the USA.

[@davidrobert4246]

@@jenniferwise8515 Thank you for correcting my mistake. I have submitted a request for you to receive a noble prize for your efforts.

[@mohakhu]

The happiness in your eyes after you're done, wow 😍

[@capitolapp]

Nice vid Slim. You'd be wise to add some "x" style cross bracing between some of your 4x4 vertical posts under the deck. This will help and prevent lateral movement.

[@epatto]

This is exactly the sort of content I enjoy watching. Keep them coming Slim!

[@afrock1000]

Nice job. I am sure the deck is great. I am going to suggest blocking at the mid-point of each joist. They are going to dry, shrink and twist. The blocking will help to alleviate the resulting problems.

[@brettn4337]

I was going to say the same. Might be able to use some more of the salvaged timber

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks for the tips! SP

[@juanitagreenspan5412]

I am in awe. That was a lot of work but the perfect addition to the cabin.

[@grosvenorclub]

I can't imagine anything more enjoyable than building a deck looking over the water surrounded by trees .

[@oceanside9508]

I came to this channel for camping and nature, but this cabin series has been enthralling! Awesome work, Slim.

[@faithrada]

Absolutely. I love the balance between travel & securing a cozy safe haven. What an awesome location that is. AND... he is adding value with all that labor. I doubt he is going to 'flip' this *Shangrala* any time soon though. 😉

[@doris1826]

🤣😂 "I wouldn't say they were well hung, but they're pretty proud of themselves." Funny stuff! 🤣😅

[@JodieMiners]

Classic Slim!

[@philtronmegabrew]

Despite the costs the view and serenity will be priceless

[@mrben6573]

This cabin is going to be a real gem when it's done. Already looks super good.

[@sholaantar2224]

Thanks Slim for showing a Woman how to do basic carpentry. Much appreciated. Although I do lots of things myself, this is new territory I am enthusiastic about investigating.

[@christosvlachos8710]

Very good job Slim!

[@eugenetrollip751]

Not bad for an "amateur"! I would think that the deck boards are the more satisfying part because you can actual stand on the deck and admire the view (which is gorgeous by the way)!

[@Stephen-ob3ij]

Really good job, doubt I'd have the patience and there would be more than a few expletives.

[@ambulingadventures-stan1050]

Really nice to your vision coming to life. The cabin is looking more and more inviting!

[@steverandall5814]

That deck is beautiful and built like the proverbial brick s--t house! Watching you swing that professional-quality 20 ounce framing hammer with ease, leads me to believe building this deck isn't your first rodeo. Thanks for the great videos Slim!

[@creglauda1621]

When you make a wood deck you need to have a space between each board you can use the width of a large nail. If you don't do this puddles will form on the deck and you will end up getting rot way to soon. You did a good job but forgot the spacing. Also spacing is for expansion from heat and cold.

[@manuelester7420]

I saw spaces between the boards. If not, they'll start squeaking too.

[@edog7059]

Unfortunately, I think Slim's going to regret not providing space between those deck planks. A couple seasons of snow melt and refreeze and then rain and it'll be problematic. At this point it might be worthwhile to run his circular saw down the seams to create some slots.

[@sarahhigh8676]

Maybe the wood will shrink and it will provide a space between the boards

[@grzegorzlecki3139]

for those "city folks" who do not get the opportunity to build things, it is hard to describe the immense joy and satisfaction on working on projects like this.

[@certaindeaf8315]

A 1/4" gap between deck boards prevents sitting water and is easier to keep clean of pine needles etc.

[@aarongill2942]

My place has a deck without enough gap and the fir needles fill in what’s there. The boards rot much faster. When I rebuild I’ll probably go with a 3/8” gap

[@williambranham6249]

@@aarongill2942 Yes I think 3/8 is better. My wife complains about the seeds from our poplar trees sticking in our decking spaces (less than 3/8) but I told her the spacing couldn't be more than 3/8 because my girl friends 5 in. heels would go through the decking spaces. She didn't laugh.

[@thomasbordelon4149]

In time the boards will naturally gap themselves as the wood shrinks.

[@chrislincoln489]

Also watch the crown of the lumber. some of these are upside down and the side will rase up and cause you to trip over them. Other than these two things you did a great job.

[@certaindeaf8315]

@@chrislincoln489 Yes, you can see the ring growth and you want the crown up.

[@rharris22222]

"...but they're pretty proud of themselves!" I chuckled for 5 minutes at most racy thing I can recall hearing from Slim! I'm smiling just thinking about it.

[@ruthanderson1758]

Even with the crazy cost of lumber these days, I think you got a great deck for a reasonable price.

[@scotttracey123]

More cabin videos PLEASE!!!!!! Love the way its taking shape!!!!

[@chuckrf1502]

That will be the most well used space in the cabin. 👍🏻

[@nanavango9374]

“I can’t say that the joists are well-hung, but they are pretty proud of themselves.” 🤣🤣

[@scratchsescape1978]

Decades ago restored a primitive cabin inside the Gallain National forest in south central Montana. This brought back memories of the challenges and joys. A few years ago I re-laid the decking on my 75X12 deck at my home in South Carolina and yes deck screws get old. I watched your video this morning sitting on that deck. Great job Slim!

[@javascript3ds698]

That looks like a small paradise, glad for you,you deserve every moment of it 🍻.

[@littlebear7018]

"Feathers appear when angels appear!" Also, it's a positive omen for your soul -- especially if you've been looking for the feather 🪶

[@lakecavanaugh]

Now THAT was a successful functional test! Looks great! Seems like a lot of money but that is really a bargain. Your ability to do it yourself really saves a lot of money.

[@pauloh3591]

Look who's deck! You did a tremendous job. Congrats!

[@gbthecamper458]

Great job on the deck and I agree with you that floating it will be just fine. If you are worried about lateral post movement, you could use cross bracing with 2x4s. In the end you also have a great storage area underneath as well

[@topherjoe1]

I was thinking the same.

[@ceciliagloriasoriano6133]

I feel so happy and excited for this undertaking. no matter the cost, your happiness outweighs the money value. your happiness has no price to it. happy for you SLIM.

[@wendysmith6981]

The deck looks fabulous, so impressed with how it turned out. Take care.

[@G.Photogirl]

Well done! You have your own little slice of heaven there, to enjoy for years to come, so kudos to you! 👏🏼

[@virginiatolles1664]

Well done! You'll really enjoy that deck! So will we, even if only vicariously through your videos.

[@Tuckerclan]

" they may not be well hung, but they're pretty proud of themselves." Classic Slim

[@Tuckerclan]

" they should come with hors d'oeuvres and a foot massage " more classic Slim

[@pagewhite61]

What a great deck Slim, bravo! You did a great job, I can’t wait to see what’s next! Thanks for the video.

[@mikewilson8594]

I think the rebar and metal straps for the stair stringers is a great idea. Should be solid and safe enough for some time. Love the cabin videos!

[@animestein]

This was very inspiring, also relaxing. Nothing could be better than to enjoy a drink, in a place that you built yourself. Enjoy it Slim, and have a great time!

[@mweber2000]

Slim, you are a true renaissance man.

[@carolm7828]

Although you said “you went past your budget” and “went over your expected finish date of completion,” the end result was worth it!😁. You now have an area where you can sit down and enjoy that Beautiful view! Looks like it’s sturdy! And like you said “if you need to do any further repairs, you will!” Good job!👏🏼

[@Gail-gf7km]

Stairway to heaven is absolutely right! Looks just perfect to me!

[@kevinwiss6011]

Good job Slim! That cabin is coming right along! Yep, that price for the lumber and supplies is RIDICULOUS!!!! But hey, you got it done! 👍👍

[@lynella6073]

Gosh slim, for not being a pro, you sure did a good job! If you’ve got the time, a lot of gratification comes from completing something like that, love watching your videos, thanks!

[@GreatGrannyFreeBird]

I really like this video summarizing the deck build and key features. Just love how you designed that chopped off corner by the stairs. That really added character! The best part was your 'test drive'. Fun fun.

[@lauramackay9005]

Slim you have done a fantastic job on your cabin. We look forward to seeing how it all finishes up. Well done.

[@sylviajones4907]

You did an amazing job on that deck. Looks great. Love your humor (laughed out loud) & humbleness (you know a lot of stuff!). Thank you for letting us watch you work. Enjoy your labor of love. (The hummingbird was blessing your finished project!)

[@Panamaca]

Slim, hello from Oklahoma! First, my wife sends her best she loves your videos and it makes her even more happy to see working/building. My wife would rather have cement the diamonds, she's a keeper of 31 years. I've been watching you for years now and got her interested in your videos. Thanks for showing us some of Canada and some parts of the US we haven't visited. Thanks mucho!

[@HTC9184]

Lovely! Great Job! I would put a low seat (instead of the rail) around the edge of the deck… so it doesn’t disrupt the view while sitting. ❤️ Enjoy!! Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@RutherfordTony]

Great job Slim. You are making it your home. Congratulations!

[@CampandCamera]

I wouldn’t have thought of doing an overhang and a tapered corner. It turned out great! I could see myself spending lots of time on a deck like that.

[@doricohen5014]

Well done Slim! .. so wonderful for you .you will enjoy that deck for years to come !

[@Outdoor_MED]

Good job Slim! Don't forget to install a beer opener right on one of those deck posts for convenience haha

[@georgekerr8804]

King George couldn't have a better view. I love the deck. I really love the view, with the trees and ocean. I built a deck, 30 years ago and it definitely took more than 10 days. Your money is well spent.

[@zooedca]

I did my deck the same way you did. The ground was there for X years before and 12 years later my deck has not sunk at all. I threw some gravel under later to help with any erosion. Great work! Thanks again for the videos.

[@laurelpeterson1307]

Hey Slim, I hope you're saving one can from every type of beer you are drinking throughout your travels. You could put a ceiling high shelf all the way around the room and decorate it with those cans with the added bonus that it'll bring you back good memories when you're old.

[@kimberlyshalaby1134]

The veranda looks relaxing, very inviting. You saved probably as much doing it yourself.

[@Abrewdog]

As a carpenter for a majority of my adult life. I’m not going to say a thing other than enjoy your deck and the peace it will bring you.

[@tracynorris355]

Well done sir....your saying on the wicked need no rest was taught to me also...goes like this.. No rest for the weary And the wicked don't need any! 😂 I enjoy watching your adventures!

[@dmdavis4551]

Proud of you Slim, you did a wonderful job!. Hoping you enjoy it for many years to come. Such a beautiful home location. Keep on Keeping on!

[@ladikmk]

That broken down little cabin is taking on some shine. Beautiful job on the deck Slim and that beer - well deserved! Enjoy the view and stay well.

[@shopart1488]

With all the joking I think you are a carpenter at heart. Looks good and anyone that says different probably never built a deck. I built homes for years, now at 78 I love watching others do it!!

[@oceanbrzzz]

Hi SP, I enjoy every video you do. This is exceptional, you make building the deck easy to understand. I am excited to see it finished. I have “helped” build 2 decks on our log home.

[@bikingal4283]

oh my gosh Slim... that view makes it all worth it... I have a brick deck in my backyard by my pool and I spend 75% of my time on it, eat almost every meal on it.. you have so many years to enjoy your deck and the pride you must feel for doing this by yourself alone, and doing a wonderful job, will reward you for those 10 days of sweat...and I will never again believe you when you start out with "well I may not know what I'm doing" b/c I see that is bogus... you do amazing work... cheers

[@eugenesaint1231]

Excellent deck, Slim. I envy you your energy and tenacity. It came out beautifully. Just sane... :^) Saint

[@flyinggyros9745]

Slim, the deck looks great. I would add just two things. A radio to listen to music and ballgames. And a BBQ grill. Enjoy the heck out of it. Alan

[@alld6005]

I'm not an expert, but that seems very securely put together. It looks great. Well done, you nailed it!

[@deerhaven3350]

I think what you've accomplished there on your own is amazing. The place already is in so much better shape than it was when you started with it a year ago. I bought a fixer-upper in the forest here in western WA State five years ago this month and it's just a process, but I'm so proud of what I've accomplished over the ensuing years and you should be too.

[@mariec1297]

Looks fantastic! I wish you many happy beers, sunrises and sunsets on it!

[@ericsalkeld7146]

Good job Slim. The best living space you can add. Hint: The small tabs on the top of each hanger arm can be tapped into your header and then you can remove your guide block and nail the hanger without it moving.

[@elvirak.schuller9449]

Wow, the deck turned out great!! 😀

[@ralphlong9973]

You gave me a big smile when you opened up that beer on your brand new deck. I know the feeling. Congratulations!

[@UncaDave]

Been waiting for this video! Great job Slim! Enjoyed all your techniques and design choices. It all suited your goal and that’s the most important thing. I have a cabin in the WV mountains and having a nice deck really enhances the enjoyment of a place. Looking forward to seeing your creation follow-up on your railing. Coffee in the morning or evening on the deck, cook-outs, hanging out, just siting and doing whatever. Let the fun begin. Also, nice play on words from the “Night Before Christmas” on hanging the joists! So funny! Your place is really going well!

[@shauna5466]

Such a beautiful deck, No amount of money could buy a more beautiful view!

[@doggonervn211]

Reminded me of the simple lake cabin my dad built for our family in the late 50's, l helped dig the out house pit too! Simpler times back then. Wish l could go back to those days now at 70!

[@catpurrson3651]

All that by yourself. What an accomplishment! Don't you just love that chair? So functional!

[@929cbr_rr]

Deck looks great Slim ! They are so worth it. I'm watching this vid on my laptop, sitting on the deck I built here at home 22 years ago. Quite possibly the best investment of time and money I have made on the place. Keep up the good work, you're whipping the cabin into nice shape.

[@cherlgolja5402]

Amazing ! Just beautiful workmanship and beautiful location ! I’m so happy for you ! You will enjoy that cabin for years to come ! Can’t wait to see how you remodel the inside 😎

[@dixxebell]

Having built 2 decks myself I know it's a lot of work...but it sure saves on $$ since labor is high. Good Job, Im loving the cabin work! You're creating a fantastic home.

[@daveneil3963]

I think the 45's look more pleasing on the deck than 90's would have. Great work, thanks for the video, looking forward to more.

[@et375]

Looks like the perfect place to enjoy the great job on the deck,You make building a deck look easy,Enjoy!

[@TheWestlandgirl]

Essential for resting and recharging as you finish the rest of the cabin. You need a hammock on it too. Oh yeah!!

[@Wintersnow147]

The docks looks great! I really enjoy your cabin updates!

[@dennisbosworth3665]

I do enjoy your traveling videos, but I really like these cabin videos even better!

[@bobhobart3613]

Excellent job Slim !! I recently retired after 40 years in the retail sale of anything “ built” The last 25+ estimating, reviewing engineering etc. I’ll guess you could have saved 3+ days with nail guns+ Looks fantastic and what a beautiful location!! Bob

[@debra-vs]

I'll take screws over nails in a deck any day.

[@agentofficerthomasa.porter107]

Slim, your get'n there. It does not happen overnight. Have restored 7 homes in my life & each one was a great experience & frustration at times as any restoration & build is. Never have cared to Rent wherever I have lived. Concrete with Gravel would be a good base foundation for your post. It does not take much to do on each one. You can use the small bags of Instant Concrete so mixing with a Concrete Mixing Barrel is not needed bought or rented. Can get the Bags of Gravel & Rebar across the concreate. Food for thought. As you have done there is going to be some settling from the ground on each of your post setting bases. Yes lumber has gone up & quality lumber is substandard lumber today. Recommend ya always check each board your going to use with your delivery order & have them tape or wrap so it does not change upon appearing at the home sight. Never used a nail & never want to. Yes they speed up the process & they can also jam or accidents are no picnic with them. Your Deck Look's Great. You will tweet from time to time & then your mission is accomplished & enjoy. Always, Tommy :-)

[@PaulyGirl48]

What an inviting and relaxing deck! My favorite part of this cabin so far! Great job👍

[@jim.h]

26:00 The only thing you have to remember when you get the help of some buddies and a case of beer, is to bring the beer out at the END of the day!!😊

[@judyabernathy80]

Again, what can’t you do???? Looks amazing, and I think it will last a long time, as well! Yew de man, Slim! ♥️🙏🏼♥️

[@maryrusso4910]

You ll have to get a hummingbird feeder or four. A BFF's sister hung feeders out and the hummingbirds flocked to it. They got used to people coming out and sitting on the porch. It turned into a feeding station after a while. She had ruby throated hummingbirds at her house.

[@sholaantar2224]

I just built all the cabinets in my kitchen, including the drawers and soft close slides. I'm on a roll!

[@racinchef]

Enjoy your videos. I’m a truck driver so I can’t often “like” each video. Love the cabin series.

[@doramather4729]

This was a lot of work and expense but so worth it, I love the progress you have done on your cabin.

[@DIYManiacJohnP]

the lign about the joist being "well hung" made me spit my coffee

[@sueg2658]

That’s awesome Slim! Well done! I’m happy for ya.

[@Rain3Silver]

You ROCK Slim! I love decks and I think you have done a great job! Looks like a very nice location. Cheers to relaxation!

[@hunter00047]

I really think you should of left quarter inch gaps between the base planks as temperature differences will warp the boards. 👍

[@SlimPotatohead]

I actually installed them when the temp was 31c (88f). Once they cool and dry out a little, I'm pretty sure there will be gaps. Thanks! SP

[@hunter00047]

@@SlimPotatohead great

[@annekerr1729]

What a brilliant adventure Slim! Just a tad jealous!!!! Looking amazing!!!!😎👏👏👏👏👏👏💕🇦🇺